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Friday, 3 March 2017

Six things you didn’t know about an apprenticeship

Thinking about an apprenticeship? Take a look at these
six reasons why it’s such a great option.

1)You won’t have to pay fees

Worried about the long-term cost of uni? As an apprentice, you’ll
graduate debt-free! Apprenticeship fees are paid by the government and employers.

2)Higher and degree
apprenticeships are assessed by employers

Apprentices study for a national vocational qualification (NVQ). You’ll
get tested on practical, work-related tasks, so you get to see first-hand how
you’re progressing.

As NVQs are assessed by employers, they really are the ideal way to
get job ready. If you already know the right career for you, an apprenticeship
could give you the skills and experience you need to get there.

3)There are four different types
of apprenticeship

·Intermediate (Level 2) – roughly
equivalent to five GCSEs.

·Advanced (Level 3) – roughly equivalent
to two A levels/Highers.

·Higher/technical (levels 4 to 7) –
equivalent to a Higher National Diploma (HND). With a higher apprenticeship,
you have the opportunity to carry on to a foundation degree.

·Degree/professional (levels 5 to 7) –
equivalent to a bachelor’s degree. You’ll combine on-the-job learning with lectures,
seminars, and independent study, and will graduate with a fully accredited
degree. You can even progress to master’s level.

4)Apprenticeships often have
higher entry requirements than employment

Be realistic about which apprenticeship you apply for – some might
have higher entry requirements than others. As the entry requirements are
controlled by employers, they might sometimes be flexible. For example, if you
don’t hold the required grades or qualifications, try persuading them with your
transferrable skills. This is your opportunity to sell yourself, so think about
what you have to offer.

5)Apprenticeships are for
all ages

Apprenticeships are for everyone. You don’t need to be a school
leaver to take on an apprenticeship, but equally, you can start straight after
your GCSEs, or after taking your A levels. If you are already in full-time work
and want to change your career path, why not retrain with an apprenticeship?

6)You will learn the same
things on an apprenticeship as at uni

You might find that apprenticeship course content is actually very
similar to a traditional university course. When combined with the valuable
experience you’ll gain along the way, you’ll be in a great position to get that
job you want.

If you think an apprenticeship might be for you, start exploring
at your options now.